How do I access Old Salem?

Old Salem is a public boat ramp in Georgia. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Old Salem?

Old Salem supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Old Salem?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Old Salem?

The best time to paddle at Old Salem is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Old Salem?

Water conditions at Old Salem include calm, sheltered.

Is Old Salem good for beginners?

Yes, Old Salem is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

green trees beside body of water during daytime

Photo by Skyler Smith on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Old Salem

Buckhead, GA · Boat Ramp · Public

Old Salem is a public boat ramp on Oconee River - Lake Oconee near Buckhead, Georgia. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Old Salem offers lake paddling on Oconee River - Lake Oconee in Georgia. Located near Buckhead.

Lake paddlers in Georgia will appreciate Old Salem, which offers direct access to Oconee River - Lake Oconee and its surrounding waters.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 10 min from Buckhead, Old Salem is a convenient option for Buckhead-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Old Salem ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Old Salem?: Old Salem is a public boat ramp in Georgia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Old Salem?: Old Salem supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Old Salem?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Old Salem?: The best time to paddle at Old Salem is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Old Salem?: Water conditions at Old Salem include calm, sheltered.
Is Old Salem good for beginners?: Yes, Old Salem is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 33.4342, -83.2492